Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Dijon Roasted Carrots recipe is a fantastic way to elevate the humble carrot into a vibrant and flavorful side dish. The combination of tangy lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a hint of honey creates a rich glaze that caramelizes as the carrots roast. The addition of fresh dill adds a burst of herbal flavor, while the option to sprinkle crumbled feta over the top brings in a creamy and salty finish. Best of all, it’s easy to make and only requires a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, washed & peeled
• 1 Tbsp avocado oil
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice, divided
• 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 Tbsp honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• ¼ tsp salt
• Black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Carrots: Wash and peel the carrots, then cut them into evenly-sized pieces, either in halves or quarters depending on their thickness.
3. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the avocado oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper.
4. Toss the Carrots: Place the prepared carrots on the baking sheet. Drizzle the glaze over the carrots and toss them to coat evenly.
5. Roast the Carrots: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly caramelized, stirring once halfway through for even roasting.
6. Finish and Serve: After roasting, remove the carrots from the oven and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of lemon juice. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy twist.
2. Herb Variations: Swap out the dill for other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a different flavor profile.
3. Maple Dijon Carrots: Substitute the honey with maple syrup for a more robust sweetness and a slightly different flavor.
4. Add Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts can be sprinkled over the carrots after roasting to add extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover roasted carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the carrots in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?

Yes! You can use other root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets in place of or alongside the carrots.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the carrots, coat them with the glaze, and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before roasting.

Can I use a different type of oil?

While avocado oil is great for roasting, you can substitute it with olive oil, coconut oil, or any neutral oil of your choice.

How do I know when the carrots are done roasting?

The carrots are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork and have developed a nice golden-brown caramelization on the edges.

Can I use pre-cut carrots?

Yes, you can use baby carrots or pre-cut carrot sticks, but you may need to adjust the roasting time since smaller carrots will cook faster.

Can I omit the feta cheese?

Yes, you can omit the feta cheese to keep the recipe dairy-free, or you can substitute it with a vegan feta alternative if you prefer.

How can I make the glaze tangier?

To make the glaze tangier, you can add a little extra Dijon mustard or lemon juice, depending on your taste.

Can I roast these carrots with other ingredients?

Yes! Feel free to roast the carrots alongside other vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini to create a roasted vegetable medley.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, you can incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Lemon Dijon Roasted Carrots recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Lemon Dijon Roasted Carrots are a delicious, easy-to-make side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots while adding vibrant, tangy flavors. With the richness of Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon, balanced by the freshness of dill and the optional creamy feta topping, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. Perfect for any meal, this simple recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please any crowd.

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